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Sonalksis TBK

The Liverpool-based lads don't disappoint with their first filter plug-in

We've loved every single one of Sonalksis’ previous plug-ins and regularly use all of them, so it was with some anticipation that we loaded up TBK.

The controls are pretty simple. You set your input level and then your cutoff frequency. This latter control is based on either frequency or (very unusually) on a stepped system spanning notes E1 to D9.

Next, you can select the filter type (high-, low- or band-pass) and then move on to the interesting resonance section. Rather than offering a smooth control, this is graded into four settings that include LOW, MED, HIGH and – amusingly – RUDE! Finally, there’s the filter slope, which goes from a traditional 12 to a precise 24, before ending on a scarily surgical 48!

Intense

We must admit to being a little underwhelmed when we first saw TBK’s simple interface and control set (its size and look just don’t seem as distinguished as its siblings), but such reservations were swept quickly aside. It just sounds gorgeous.

Even at extreme settings TBK holds its character perfectly, sounding intense but always musically so. And like all the Sonalksis plugs, this character is as distinctive and recognisable as that of any high-end hardware.

If we have one complaint, it has to be the price, but Sonalksis have promised to add a further two plug-ins to the TBK series, and apparently, all three will be available as a discounted bundle.

MusicRadar Rating

4.5 / 5 stars

Pros

Fantastic, authentic sound.

Cons

Simple interface and control set.

Verdict

Another winner from Sonalksis. It may look basic, but if you want a great-sounding filter, TBK fits the bill.

OS Requirements

Apple Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later Microsoft Windows XP

Plug-in FX Type

Adaptive Resonance Filter

Review Policy

All MusicRadar's reviews are by independent product specialists, who are not aligned to any gear manufacturer or retailer. Our experts also write for renowned magazines such as Guitarist, Total Guitar, Computer Music, Future Music and Rhythm. All are part of Future PLC, the biggest publisher of music making magazines in the world.